Following the announcement of King Harald V of Norway's death at the age of 89 on Friday, Denmark’s King Frederik and Queen Mary issued a formal statement expressing their profound sorrow. In a message addressed to the former crown prince, whom they referred to as His Majesty King Haakon VIII, the Danish monarchs conveyed their warmest thoughts and condolences to the late King’s wife, Queen Sonja, as well as to Haakon, his wife Mette-Marit, and the broader Norwegian royal family.
King Harald, who ascended the throne on January 17, 1991, following the death of his father, King Olav V, served for over three decades under the royal motto "Alt for Norge" (All for Norway). Reflecting on his legacy, the Danish royal couple described him as "an extraordinary man, with a twinkle in his eye and a big heart." They emphasized the deep, long-standing ties between the two nations, noting that the Norwegian King served as a symbol of the bonds that unite Denmark and Norway. In their statement, they also offered support to the new King, expressing confidence that Haakon will carry out his new role with the same dignity and honor as his father.
The loss of King Harald also prompted a response from Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Writing on Instagram on Friday, she characterized the late monarch as a unifying and highly respected figure, not only for the Norwegian people but for the entire Nordic region. Frederiksen noted that throughout his extensive reign, King Harald stood as a symbol of continuity and maintained the close relationship between the two neighboring countries. She added that he was a "warm friend to Denmark" and that his passing is felt deeply within the country.
King Harald was deeply cherished by Norwegians throughout his 35-year reign.
"For generations, our families and our countries have been closely tied. Your father will stand as a symbol of that which binds us together."
